Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

According to NFPA 13, what is the maximum spacing allowed between sprinkler heads?

1. 10 feet

2. 15 feet

3. 20 feet

4. 25 feet

The correct answer is: 15 feet

The correct answer, which indicates that the maximum spacing allowed between sprinkler heads is 15 feet, is based on the guidelines established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in their Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, specifically NFPA 13. This standard is designed to ensure effective fire suppression and safety in buildings. In most scenarios, maintaining a maximum spacing of 15 feet between sprinkler heads helps to ensure that water distribution is adequate to cover the entirety of the area that requires protection. Open areas, high ceilings, and different types of building configurations all influence the effectiveness of sprinkler systems, and limiting the distance between heads improves the likelihood of suppressing a fire before it can spread significantly. The guideline is critical because if sprinkler heads are spaced too far apart, there may be gaps in coverage where fires can develop unimpeded. This stipulation reflects extensive research and historical data on fire dynamics and the effectiveness of sprinkler systems, emphasizing the importance of ensuring fire protection measures are both comprehensive and effective. While the other choices offer different maximum spacing allowances, NFPA 13 has determined that 15 feet is a balance that provides sufficient water coverage in various environments, aligning with fire safety principles aimed at minimizing risk and maximizing safety in facilities.